The Patch: 'Family Fun Act' Would Offer Relief To Amusement Parks: LI Reps

The "Family Fun Act" was introduced by U.S. congressmen Andrew Garbarino (R-NY) and Tom Suozzi (D-NY) on Wednesday, according to a release from Garbarino's Office.

The bill would expand eligibility for the U.S. Small Business Administration's (SBA) Shutter Venue Operators Grant (SVOG) program to include amusement parks and other community businesses. The news conference was held at Adventureland in Farmingdale.

"The amusement park industry, a key driver of travel and tourism on Long Island, has been deeply impacted by the pandemic," Garbarino, a member of the House Committee on Small Business, told reporters. "However, it is an industry that has been largely neglected by pandemic relief funding. Small businesses should not be denied vital funding due to a technicality."

The bill would open the door to grant funding for amusement parks, arcades, concession stands, bowling alleys, and other businesses that Garbarino said have been devastated by the coronavirus pandemic but have yet to receive relief.